Abingdon Press has announced the hiring of Russ Sellars as the new director of trade sales, effective immediately.

“Russ is known for his solutions-focused sales management and proven background in employing analysis and business intelligence aimed at identifying target markets and opportunities,” said Tamara Crabtree, Abingdon’s executive director of marketing and sales. “This type of strategic vision is the perfect match for our company’s initiatives. Likewise, his dedication to building solid relationships and customer loyalty will serve our books and resources well in today’s marketplace.”

Sellars has more than 25 years of experience in sales, leadership and team development and most recently served with NavPress as key accounts manager. Prior to that, Sellars was with Group Publishing where he managed the trade sales team of inside and outside sales representatives in strengthening performance of retail and Internet channels, as well as opening new channels of distribution.

Earlier in his career, he spent several years with Zondervan as director of national accounts and with Word Publishing as sales manager. A graduate of the University of Nebraska, Sellars started his career managing bookstores for Family Christian and LifeWay.

“My family and I feel honored to join the Abingdon Press team and can’t wait to see what God has in store for this new chapter of life,” he said.